Ugh, shit like that shouldn’t be legal. There are SO many small towns who can’t get decent internet because their lawmakers were bought out. In my state, there’s a small ISP that’s all fiber. They go to small towns and say “we’ll make sure everyone within the city limits, and some outside, can get fast, reliable internet. We’ll put in an office in the town square if possible, so that we’re easy to find if you need help.” It’s a smart plan. I used to work for them, but they pinch pennies worse than any company I’ve ever worked for, and I cost too much due to prior experience.So now I work for at&t. That small company has decided to take on the capital city here. We’re also putting in fiber everywhere, and we’re racing that small company to get coverage. First one to get fiber into a neighborhood gets that neighborhood. We have techs loaned in from 4 other states to help push it in our favor.

THAT is how it should go. Not blocking people’s access with legislation. Provide, or lose the area to someone who will.